Getting ready to apply - 9 things you can do now
Applications for teacher training courses starting in 2023 open on 11 October, but there is plenty you can be doing right now to get ready.
1. Check your eligibility
Before you apply for teacher training you’ll need to make sure you’re eligible. Although different training providers may have specific recruitment criteria, there are some basic eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet to become a teacher in England.
2. Get personalised guidance to your inbox
Get one step closer to the classroom with guidance tailored to you, including how to get:
- a taste of teaching
- funding to train
- one-to-one support
- advice from trainees or recently qualified teachers
Sign up for personalised guidance in your inbox.
3. Get a teacher training adviser
An adviser with years of teaching experience can help you if you’re (one of the following):
- ready to get into teaching
- returning to teach at a secondary school in England and already have qualified teacher status (QTS)
Maximise your chances of submitting a successful application with the support of a dedicated and experienced teaching professional. Talk to an adviser by phone, text or email, as often or as little as you need.
4. Research training courses
Find postgraduate teacher training(opens in new window). You can search by location, training provider and subject to find the course best suited to you.
5. Reflect on (or get some) school experience
Demonstrating how any voluntary time you have spent in school has shaped your view of teaching is vital to a good application. If you haven’t managed to get some time in a school yet, some schools are offering the opportunity for candidates to undertake school experience both in school and virtually.
Search for schools and apply for school experience(opens in new window).
If you’re an undergraduate student interested in teaching physics, maths, computing or modern languages, you might also be able to apply for some paid teaching experience. Find out how you might be eligible for a teaching internship.
6. Start lining up your references
You’ll need a couple of people who can give you a reference when you apply. They’ll confirm how they know you and if they know any reason why you should not work with children.
If a training provider offers you a place and you accept, they’ll use your references to find out more about you.
Find out more about choosing your references.
7. Get some advice at an event
Our Get Into Teaching events will provide you with a wealth of information and help you turn questions to confidence on your journey to the classroom. At some of our Get Into Teaching events you can meet a whole range of local training providers; at others you’ll have the chance to put your questions to a panel of experts. Some events are in person and others replicate the experience online. Book your place at a Get Into Teaching event.
8. Join our support networks
Our Facebook groups for aspiring teachers(opens in new window) and people thinking of a career change to teaching(opens in new window) offer a really friendly, supportive place to connect with other people applying for teacher training and ask any questions you might have. Our Teacher Training Advisers are also on hand to give expert advice.
9. Follow us on social media
Follow us on your preferred platform or platforms for the up-to-date guidance and tips along with inspiring stories from the world of teaching. You can:
If you’re interested in enriching the lives of young people, find out more about how you can become a teacher. Or find out what to expect in your initial teacher training.